Fetching & Functional Built-Ins: Part Three

In part three of our fetching and functional built-in series, we will focus on built-ins that enhance entertainment in the home. Entertaining friends and family and the preparation that goes into their visit can be a streamlined and improved experience when elements are built-in. Check out these Visbeen Associates' designed built-ins that make throwing a party a delight instead of a chore.

Let's start by looking at built-in bars, some of the most fun built-ins for us to design.

The flow of Inverness' built-in bar and lounge into the lower level family room creates an open entertaining space where partygoers can get refreshments at the bar and still mingle.

No need for party decorations in the pub area of the Blaine. The bar and built-ins surrounding it creates a relaxing entertainment area with style - notice the unexpected element of stained glass windows into the adjacent wine cellar, allowing for ample storage of libations for all tastes.

The lower level wet bar of the South Haven is built into the otherwise unused space under the stairs, keeping floorspace clear and refreshments organized.

The dark colors and rich detailing of the Wainsborough's wet bar and wine cellar add elegance to this otherwise casual entertaining area.

The unexpected pop of color, flat panel cabinetry and open, table-like built-in bar all work together to create a contemporary feel to the classically-inspired Pemberley's wet bar.

Rustic elements combined with openness to the lower level lounge area and sports court create a true man-cave feeling for Pinehurst's built-in bar, perfect for entertaining the boys.

This modern built-in bar is tucked away in the corner of the barrel-vaulted ceiling gathering room of the Rylestone, allowing for a separated prep space and refreshment center for catered parties.

Sometimes, the grill master of a party can feel like an outcast, having to leave the guests to slave over the party fare. But these built-in grilles keep the guests and cooks together with style.

Pemberley's built-in outdoor kitchen in the screened porch creates a space where guests and host can make the most of seasonal ambience, even during the food preparation.

Traverse's outdoor built-in grill brings the guests outside to join the host in enjoying the home's expansive patio and surrounding lakefront view.

The retractable screens of the Truxton's porch create an entertaining and cooking space ready for all weather.

Located just off of the kitchen, Ingleside's built-in grille is the perfect place for the griller to set up shop and still enjoy the party, allowing them to easily go between the kitchen food preparation area and outdoor entertaining space.